Dear CRC Volunteer,
I was raised for a large part of my life by a single mother. Our family often struggled financially and I remember vividly that we rarely had toilet paper. If we were at a local store and used the restroom, my sisters and I were instructed to grab extra TP out of the stall to bring home. Napkins from gas stations and coffee filters also worked when needed. It was more important to have rice and beans in the house than something frivolous like two-ply Charmin.
Even as a young married couple, my husband and I were on such a tight budget that I would balk at the price of deodorant, toothpaste or of cereal. Only the bare essentials allowed.
I think in part that is why the CRC Holiday Baskets program is so special to me. When we have plenty it can be easy to forget that there are families who have to choose between paying the rent or providing a holiday treat for their kids. The goal of Holiday Baskets has always been to provide dignity and a fun holiday experience for families who may feel that is out of reach for them. To provide staple food items to offset the cost of bills, and to provide some "luxury" items like plush blankets and coats, that we can take for granted.
While we couldn't offer all the choices of years past, CRC staff, volunteers and donors worked hard to provide the best experience possible. This newsletter highlights the drive-through distribution on December 4th and those who made it happen.
Thank you to our volunteers who work across the many CRC programs to support the work we do. It all makes a difference!
